Spending Time Together
Explore ways to bond with young children through playful, everyday interactions during daily routines.
As you watch the video, consider ways to be present during everyday life:
- Turn chores into a game (for instance, at laundry time, count the clean socks and match them up).
- On a long car, train, or bus ride, take turns picking a category and naming things in the category: fruit, smells, birds, pizza toppings, and so on.
- Take a few minutes to just watch your child play. As you do, breathe deeply and remind yourself to enjoy the moment.
Parenting Moment: Describing
The way you talk with children matters! Your words have power.
Parenting Moment: Imitating
Playing is learning! The way you play with children matters… your actions and words have power.
Parenting Moment: Reflecting
The way you talk with children matters… your words have power!
Parenting Moment: Enjoying!
Showing you enjoy your time together with your child builds your special bond. And when you’re being positive, your little one is more likely to do the same.
For Providers: Using These Resources
Print and refer to this page as you implement the materials in this initiative.
The Power of Following Children’s Lead
Joining children in their play offers so many opportunities to encourage, communicate, bond, spark and share joy, teach, show warmth and kindness, and help them thrive.
Milestones: Your Baby’s First Year
All children grow and develop at their own pace; use this chart to guide your expectations and observations so you can talk to your child’s pediatrician about questions or concerns.
